And - when he took receipt of the golden medal - Feynman made a typically colourful and interesting banquet speech. I recommend reading the whole thing.

In it, he points out that honours can bring joy and inspiration to other people - maybe even complete strangers.

If you don't have time to read it, at least let me share Feynman's closing remarks.

"And so, you Swedish people, with your honors, and your trumpets, and your king - forgive me. For I understand at last - such things provide entrance to the heart. Used by a wise and peaceful people they can generate good feeling, even love, among men, even in lands far beyond your own. For that lesson, I thank you."